Focal Clear MG
Reddit take
AI summary of the Reddit excerpts below — not a quote
The Focal Clear MG is a high-end open-back dynamic headphone recognized for its impactful "punch," detailed imaging, and organic sound signature. While many users find it immersive and relatively easy to drive, it is frequently compared to the original Focal Clear (OG), with some preferring the newer model's warmth and others finding it too colored. A significant point of contention is its soundstage, which is often described as intimate and narrow compared to competitors like the Sennheiser HD800S or Hifiman Arya Stealth.
Pros
- Strong dynamic impact and punchy bass response
- High level of detail and clarity without being overly brittle
- Relatively easy to drive for a high-end headphone
- Organic and immersive sound signature that many find engaging
Cons
- Intimate soundstage that lacks the width of planar competitors
- Tuning can be perceived as too warm or overly colored for neutral-seekers
- Polarizing treble that some users find sharp
- Mixed reception regarding whether it is a true upgrade over the original Clear OG
Caveats
- Users seeking a wide, expansive soundstage are frequently disappointed by the Clear MG's presentation
- Comfort is generally good, but some users report headaches or issues with clamping force over time
Best for
- Listeners who prioritize physical impact and 'slam' in their audio
- Users wanting a high-end dynamic driver experience without needing massive amplification
Avoid if
- A wide and airy soundstage is your top priority
- You prefer a strictly neutral, uncolored reference sound
This summary uses balanced time weighting with about a 6-month half-life. The evidence is older, with a median source age of approximately 378 days, which may affect relevance for users tracking the latest hardware revisions.
Sentiment
30 positive (59%) · 13 mixed (25%) · 8 negative (16%)
Trust + time weighted score: +50% · raw score 43%
What redditors said (10 of 51)
My Focal Clear Mg is my #1, so naturally the Utopia intrigues me. No one does slightly warm/neutral tuning with insane dynamics like Focal.
If you liked the Focal sound then get the Focal Clear MG. It’s among the easiest to drive as far as TOTL headphones are concerned so you might be able to get away with just a Fiio KA11
Parent context: OG or MG? Reply: I prefer MG but I’m weird.
Focal Clear MG (maybe too bright for you? But warmer than the Clear itself so maybe worth it for you.)
Both My Clear OG and Clear MG clipped at ~100-105dB at certain frequencies
From the open backs I like the Philphone, HD 800S and Focal Clear MG the most.
Moreover, I can get the Focal Clear MG for the same price I would pay for the Clear OG with shipping through headphones.com
The Bathys MG made me try the Clear MG, which pretty much sold me on the Focal house sound. Nice, warm sound that makes guitars sound heavenly. My go to for listening to country music.
I had my eyes on the Focal clear mg before but I'd love to hear your thoughts.
I have the Arya Stealth myself and have previously owned and sold the Sennheiser HD800s, Audeze LCD-X, Focal Clear MG and a few others in this price range. I preferred the Arya Stealth over all of these even though it is the cheapest.
Compare
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